Across Europe communities suffer from social tensions and economic stagnation. Old and new animosities emerge, fueled by populism and nationalism. In this toxic climate the talented few leave while the majority languishes in mutual embitterment.
We believe that the key to turning around this vicious cycle is getting people across the divide to recognize what they share, in terms of their local culture and nature, and the material and immaterial value these embody. We then help them to unlock this value through shared and social entrepreneurship, in areas such as ecotourism and sustainable agriculture. This way, we help create new clusters of collaboration and trust that can withstand the corroding forces of ethnicism.
“Fronterra gave me hope that it is possible to realize what you desire” Maid, participant Mostar BiH program
Retreat in nature. Test your limits. Drop stereotypes and prejudices. Discover inner drive. Learn about local nature and culture. Understand its value. Take responsibility. Explore opportunities. Co-create start-up ideas
Develop the eco-business propositions. Test and improve them. Create synergy between the start-up ideas. Become a deeply committed team. Engage the local community. Prepare for launch
Host an open-air dinner. Gather community leaders. Pitch the proposals. Celebrate local produce and local traditions. Spark cross-community pride and hope. Win support. Launch start-ups
Set up trade event to boost sales. Start new program in the same region. Interconnect clusters. Broaden regional impact and resilience
In these days of industrialised food, we tend to forget how food has shaped our identity. Food not only expresses who we are, it is also a powerful social lubricant.
The essential challenge is to transform the isolation and self-interest within our communities into connectedness and caring for the whole
Peter Block, author
We truly think your money is well spent here. And if your grant is substantial, your are welcome to witness how it works.
“Food, at the moment, seems to be the only unifying force in this highly fractured place” Ottolenghi
Fronterra. Webdesign: Studio Odilo Girod. Webdevelopment: Alsjeblaft